In a definitive statement, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte affirmed the government’s stance, categorically stating that permissions for Sunburn festival activities on December 31 will not be granted. Khaunte emphasized that organizers have been expressly informed of this decision.
The government’s authorization for Sunburn festivities is sanctioned solely for the dates of December 28, 29, and 30, as officially stated after discussions held with the Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant reiterated that Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo had already made an appeal against hosting the Sunburn EDM festival on December 31. Sawant affirmed that if the residents of Anjuna oppose the event on New Year’s Eve, the government will honour their sentiments and not permit the festival.
This decision aligns with the strong opposition voiced by the villagers of Anjuna-Caisua, who vehemently objected to extending the Sunburn festival to four days, especially on New Year’s Eve. Their concerns revolved around the anticipated severe traffic congestion that would burden the village on the festive night which coincides with New Year’s Eve mass.
